Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Review: Garnier Clean+ Purifying Foam Cleanser

Garnier's new Clean+ line has been out for a minute and a half now, and we've even talked about the line's cleansing oil recently. Today, we're gonna tackle the new Purifying Foam Cleanser, which is meant to clean combination skin deeply without affecting its delicate balance.

I purchased it at Walgreens for $7.99 (6.8 fl. oz). Of course, I've seen it at Target for less ($5.99). I'm seeing a trend here lately. Most products I get at the drugstore (because that's where they usually hit first) are typically $2 more than Target or Walmart. My folly is your gain -- go save yourself some cash. (P.S. - Don't forget this brand always has coupons available)

Here's what Garnier has to say about it:

Not just a Better Clean, Better Skin.

Is it right for me?

Combination skin types have different cleansing needs in order to look and feel their best. Often, the wrong face scrubs are used for specific skin concerns. As a result, skin does not get the right care it needs to look and feel its best.

Packaging:

I love this packaging. At first, it looks like a regular pump dispenser. But then, when I got home and actually looked at what I bought (because instructions are clearly printed on the front and I somehow missed it -- I'm an observant one), it turns out it works a little differently. Rather than pushing down on the pump dispenser to release the foam cleanser, you pull the dispenser up to unlock it, then squeeze the bottle to release product into your hands.

What a great idea. You're much less likely to make a gigantic mess if you need to travel with this because it's easier to make sure it's closed. Plus, it gives you good control over how much product you dispense. Kudos Garnier. I'm a fan.

Garnier Clean+ Purifying Foam Cleanser - open dispenser

Use and performance:

Using this product is pretty straight forward. Dampen face, dispense foam onto hands, then rub it on your face to clean. I like using circular motions. You can also use this with a Clarisonic or other face cleansing brushes. Whatever suits your fancy. I keep this one by the bathroom sink (and my Clarisonic in the shower) so I use my hands.

Let's end the suspense now and tell you, I love this cleanser.

As a combination skin gal, I usually feel like Goldilocks when it comes to skincare products. They either provide too much moisture or too little. Same goes with cleansers. I always need to strike a delicate balance between the two. It can sometimes feel like a high-wire act. Many are either too drying because they're meant to battle oiliness (which I have some of) or too gentle to not over dry skin (something that I need, just not all over).

This is one of the first drugstore cleansers out there that has left my skin feeling as nice as it does when I use Philosophy's Purity cleanser. Now, before anyone gets excited, this is not a Purity dupe. That's not what it's set out to do. However, I noticed some similarities. Let me explain. It cleanses my skin thoroughly and keeps it looking clear without leaving it dry and tight (go ahead, giggle, I'll wait). It's also made my skin noticeably softer (one of the stand out things I noticed when I first started using Purity, which is what first led me to draw the comparison). These are all things I love about using Purity that I hadn't found in a drugstore cleanser just yet -- at least not all rolled into one. \

Garnier told us this cleanser would clean and balance persnickety combination skin, and they've delivered. This is definitely going to help me save some money without giving up clean, balanced, soft skin.

Disclosure: I use this cleanser 1-2 times per day (depending on facial cleansing needs for the day) and my Purity cleanser once per day (in the shower with my Clarisonic). Yes, sometimes I need to wash my face three times (first thing in the morning before the gym, then shower after the gym, then again before bed to wash off the day). Before starting to use this cleanser, I was only using my Purity cleanser and Clarisonic. I did not purchase the recommended Clean+ Balancing Daily Exfoliator because I rely on my Clarisonic for exfoliation.

Consistency:

This product is a foam. That means the consistency is light and frothy. It rinses away easily and doesn't leave behind residue. Here's what it looks like when you squeeze it out of the bottle.

Smell:

Alright folks, this is Garnier. That means fragrance. And I'm particularly fond this one. It's infused with grapefruit and pomegranate, which means it has a citrus scent. We should all know by now that I love citrus scented items. This one is right up my alley. It smells mostly of grapefruit to me.

Overall thoughts:

I'm really pleased with this purchase. I love that it works so well with my skin type. Finally, a cleanser for those of us that need to tackle oil, while still being gentle on our dry or normal areas. This is a definite repurchase. It does everything Garnier claims it will do (and it helps that their claims weren't all that far fetched).

Will it totally replace my Purity cleanser? I'm not sure I'm ready to quit Purity yet. I'm a little too attached. But I will keep using them together. And, whenever my high-end favorite is running low, I won't feel that crazy sense of urgency to run and replace it. At least I won't be spending higher dollar as often.

For all my combo skin folks out there, this is one product I think you'll really love (as long as you're not scent sensitive). After you get it, come back and share your thoughts. If you're already using it, what do you think? Did you feel the same way I did?

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Girly Things by *e* is a personal blog that offers readers beauty insight as if you were chatting with your gal pals. From makeup and skincare to hair and nails, I love talking about products that help us look and feel our best. If you're looking for honest and occasionally humorous product reviews, video tutorials, dupe alerts, and product swatches, then this is the place for you.

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